5 Times Gachagua Clashed With Raila in 2023
In 2023, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Raila Odinga, the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), frequently disagreed and had public confrontations on multiple occasions.
Gachagua and Raila’s conflicts stemmed primarily from their political competition, as Gachagua was concerned about the possibility of a reconciliation between Raila and President William Ruto.
Throughout the year, the ongoing political strain between the two escalated, particularly due to President Ruto’s choice to consent to engage in discussions with Raila.
Below are key instances where Raila and Gachagua had notable confrontations.
Brigadier Kiboko Burial
The funeral service for Brigadier Kiboko on August 26 unexpectedly became a platform for political rivals Raila and Gachagua.
Even though they gathered to express sympathy, their talks shifted towards a conversation about the country’s condition, specifically highlighting the ongoing discussions of the National Dialogue Committee (NDC).
Gachagua previously alleged that Raila had a meeting with President Ruto during these discussions, which led to Raila publicly denying the claim.
Mau Mau Heroes
At the funeral, Raila expressed disapproval towards Gachagua regarding the medical expenses of the deceased Mau Mau brigadier Kiboko.
Raila alleged that Gachagua was not present when necessary, asserting that only after Raila stepped in to assist with the necessary payments was the veteran able to be admitted to the hospital.
Despite the tension, the two leaders met again during the funeral ceremony.
Government Jobs and Political Allegiances
Gachagua reiterated his position as a ‘stakeholder’ on October 9, affirming that positions in the government were safeguarded for the regions that strongly supported President Ruto in the 2022 elections.
This statement was made while the President was visiting the Nyanza and Western regions, where he was reassuring residents about the enhancement of ties with opposition leader Raila Odinga.
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However, Gachagua voiced worries that Nyanza and the opposition had yet to show any backing for President Ruto and were unlikely to do so in the future.
The specifics of the encounter between Raila and Ruto at that moment were kept private or undisclosed.
Bipartisan Talks Disapproval
On September 10, Gachagua publicly encouraged Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, who was co-leading the bipartisan discussions, to step down from the committee, stating that it was pointless and not worth the time.
Raila replied by saying that Gachagua represented a challenge to the goal of unity, highlighting the significant differences in perspectives regarding the nation’s peace-building endeavors.
Protocol Dispute at the Africa Climate Summit
The first Africa Climate Summit held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre saw a disagreement arise between Gachagua and Raila regarding protocols.
Gachagua claimed that Raila breached protocol by attempting to sit next to the Heads of State contrary to protocol at national events.
Raila, however, shrugged off this jibe and never responded to it.
5 Times Gachagua Clashed With Raila in 2023
